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Bend HREC debates Robert’s Rules and public‑meeting limits, agrees to explore alternatives
Summary
Commissioners discussed whether Robert’s Rules of Order limits inclusivity and whether alternative facilitation models could improve participation. City attorney advised the commission it may adopt alternative procedures but must follow state public‑meeting rules for formal votes.
Commissioners at the City of Bend Human Rights and Equity Commission spent a large portion of their May 28 meeting debating whether Robert’s Rules of Order impede inclusive participation and whether to pursue alternative meeting formats.
Commissioner Linda Heamer read a prepared statement arguing that strict application of Robert’s Rules can privilege people familiar with parliamentary procedure and can deter participation. “The rules represent a stale and stiff artifact that emphasizes process and procedure over inclusivity and equity,” Heamer said while reading a letter proposing alternatives such as open space, appreciative…
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